
“Skinny latte” usually means espresso + nonfat milk + possibly sugar free syrup (ie sugar-free vanilla). While this drink is probably not going to rival the ill effects of its diabetic frappuccino cousin, it’s also not doing you any favors.
Here's the quick breakdown:
- Espresso:
- Nonfat Milk:
- Sugar-free Syrup:
1) Greater spikes in insulin
2) Gut Inflammation
3) Changes in our brain’s ability to gauge calorie consumption leading to increases in food intake

Perhaps by now you're asking wtf CAN I add to my coffee? Well, technically your first option is to man-up and drink your espresso with a side of black nothingness... But if that’s too bitter, the best "skinny" alternative is actually :
Espresso + a light splash of heavy cream (as in heavy whipping cream, not whipped cream).
If you are worried about the fat content; don't. “Fatty food” and “fattening food” are not synonymous. This beverage has no carbs, no extra insulin release, and is still low in calories. Also, as an added bonus: caffeine is more lipid soluble than water soluble so you get a stronger jolt.
If you're not brave enough for heavy cream yet, you can opt for:
Unsweetened coconut milk
Unsweetened almond milk
The corporate coffee giants don't usually carry these, but your trendy local hipster spot may. Good luck.
Video on Insulin:
http://eatingacademy.com/nutrition/the-insulin-response-video
Artificial Sugars
Splenda alters gut microflora and increases intestinal p-glycoprotein and cytochrome p-450 in male rats.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18800291
Sucralose affects glycemic and hormonal responses to an oral glucose load.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/23633524/
Gain weight by “going diet?” Artificial sweeteners and the neurobiology of sugar cravings
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2892765/